Southern California - new biker need assistance

okay so i bought a rockhopper disc 2 months ago but i find myself riding long distance and more on the road. So i just sold the rockhopper this morning and now looking for a road bike. I rode a specialized roubaix yesterday and it felt great. Unfortunately i tested on one of the more expensive ones i think it was the elite triple. They sell for about 1900 bucks. That is a bit out of my budget now is there another bike within lets say 1000 bucks that will be up to par with the specialized one? I like the allez but does it feelt he same as the roubaix? i think i was on the full carbon one. Will an aluminum/carbon one feel the same on the road? and are there any bike shops in the temple city, pasadena, arcadaia area that offer discounts? Ive heard of shops making deals but i cant find any around my area. any help would be appreciated thanks!

Do some research on the road forum and also post there.

My advice is always buy the most bike you can for the budget and always, always, always make sure it fits. If the bike doesn't fit properly doesn't matter how much or little you spend - you won't be happy.

If possible try and get at least Shimano 105 components, ultegra is better. And not discount previously owned bicycles. Lots of good deals to be had (although I don't think Craig's list is the best place). Check through cycling clubs and bike shops in your area.

And re deals... doesn't hurt to make an offer. The worse that happens is they say no. Shops, especially those that handle well known brands such as Trek and Specialized don't have round to negotiate as the manufacturer sets pricing.

Your price point starts to open up a lot of good options and most in that range will be of similar quality, made in China, and good solid bikes. Go with the paint job you like the best. Seriously. Nothing wrong with an Allez - it's a great bike. Fit is critical, but with the right size frame, you can get any bike to fit (w/ few exceptions). I think the average test ride is over-rated and not very useful. The bikes are poorly fitted, so a nice bike can feel crappy and vice versa. However, a good shop may take the time to more accurately fit you for a better test ride. I would disagree with buying the most you can afford, especially as a new rider. You can get often get good deals on last-year's-models.

Incycle in Pasadena is a pretty good place and they are very helpful. They have great close outs to make way for the new stuff every year. I suggest always asking what the best price is if paying cash. Goes with out saying that your not paying tax also.

Check out Scott Speedster S20 full 105 bike, hydro formed aluminum. Bicycle John's in Burbank stocks a lot of them, might be a deal there.

Just about any reputable brand 105 eqp'd is hovering at $1000 *on sale*.

Okay guys so I went ahead and purchased an 09 allez sport. Comes with full 105 components. Purchased for 1150. Should be picking it up on tuesday or wednesday.

nicely done. a bike like that will take you as far as you want to go. start racking em up...

I will see you all on the trails!! Thanks for your quicks responses!!

psst...road bikes normally go on the road, not the trails! silly ex-mountain biker! ;) :D



(just kidding you)

if i wanted to go full carbon fiber later can i just simply buy the frame and fork and put all the components on there?

I ride an allez, and I love it!